Priory school: Using handheld devices to transform learning

David Rogers, curriculum leader for Geography, Priory school specialist sports college

A lack of ICT equipment has resulted in more creative uses of technology. Handheld devices provide the ideal way of transforming learning as most young people have access to a personal device, making their use sustainable and easy to embed into schemes of work. Some examples of how we use handheld devices are:

Match the music: students browse their own collection of music and try to match a soundtrack to what they see. This activity involves teamwork, communication and collaboration as well as providing a platform to explore the geographical issues at play.

Students create their own revision podcasts which are hosted on the school's virtual learning environment (VLE). Staff use devices to showcase work and provide Assessment for Learning opportunities.

We have increased the confidence of young people and have ensured that learning is not confined to computer rooms but can happen anywhere, anytime.